FEATI News

ISAA opens big with Senator Sonny M. Angara and ADMU superstar Open Spiker Alyssa Valdez

The Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association or ISAA’s fifth season is in full swing after the grand opening ceremonies held at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City. The ISAA governing body, university officials, athletes, muses, and supporters were all present for the morning festivities which became all the more special with the participation of Guest of Honor/Speaker and newly-elected Senator Sonny M. Angara who showed up looking very youthful in jeans and t-shirt and superstar Open Spiker, Alyssa Valdez of the Ateneo de Manila University who was body-rushed by the crowd for pictures.

The ISAA, composed of FEATI University, La Consolacion College Manila (LCCM), Manila Adventist College (MAC), Manila Tytana Colleges (MTC), Philippine Merchant Marine School (PMMS), Philippine Women's University (PWU), and St. Dominic College of Asia (SDCA), holds competitions in basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and swimming. Star athletes from these universities and colleges play in the spirit of camaraderie and competition hoping to bring a large haul of medals for their beloved Alma Mater.
The opening ceremonies began with a production number from the ISAA member schools’ pep squad, during which the lights were dimmed, electrifying the already hyped-up crowd. The din was deafening. When the lights came back on, all eyes were drawn to center court where the centerpiece revealed a young Filipina dressed in traditional Baro’t Saya who, along with the Manila Adventist College Chorale led the collective singing of the Philippine National Anthem. This was followed by the Parade of Athletes, the Entrance of Colors by the Philippine Merchant Marine School cadet corps, and the Presentation of Guests and School Officials. Dr. Sergio S. Cao, president of host Manila Tytana Colleges, very graciously provided the Welcome Remarks for the annual event. Dr. Cao was followed by Ms. Melanie P. Florentino, ISAA Vice-President and FEATI Head for Events & Promotions, Sports Development & Alumni Affairs, who introduced Senator Angara for his turn at the podium. Senator Angara shared a bit of Philippine sporting history and spoke of the country’s dismal record in the Olympics. 

The young neophyte senator then shared his plans of taking the Filipino athlete ever forward together with plans for ending the dearth of Olympic medals that has eluded our athletes for decades. Senator Angara kept his speech short, simple and straightforward showing clearly that the real stars of the ISAA opening day were the much-anticipated games of the day.

Another highlight of the opening ceremonies was the presentation of beauties from ISAA member schools. The SDCA dancers began the segment and led the beauties to center court. Lizel G. Huamon (FEATI); Tash Munoz (La Consolacion College Manila); Heather Joyce Villamor (Manila Adventist College); Ruphia Ramon (Manila Tytana Colleges); Ericka Navarro (Philippine Merchant Marine School); Yvonne Mancol (Philippine Women’s University); and Ma. Hessa Saeki (St. Dominic College of Asia) strutted in full beauty queen regalia to the howling delight of their supporters. It was a close fight for the Top Three Best Muses which went to Tash Munoz, Ruphia Ramon, and Ma. Hessa Saeki. Sponsor Abot Kaya Filipino, Inc. gave gift bags to the best muses and later on gave away some of their products to the crowd of spectators in the bleachers.
Attention was then directed to Dhon C. Reverente, reigning ISAA MVP of the Philippine Merchant Marine School for the Oath of Sportsmanship. Declaring the games open was ISAA President Mr. Ruel dela Rosa of Manila Tytana Colleges. Senator Angara and Alyssa Valdez were on hand for the Ceremonial Toss.

Back to top